Over 2,500 juvenile fish have been released by Environment Agency fisheries teams in the River Wandle this week.
The nine-mile long River Wandle, which runs through southwest London, is now the new home for the young fish thanks to a yearly stocking programme by the Environment Agency
The batches of two year-old barbel, chub, roach and dace have been specially reared and trained for life in the wild at the Environment Agency’s Calverton Fish Farm in Nottinghamshire.
T
he River Wandle was badly affected by a major pollution event in September 2007 that affected a reach of the river between Beddington and Merton. The river was subsequently restocked in December 2007 after assessments by scientists showed that the river’s ecology had recovered enough to support fish.
The Environment Agency has also been working closely with anglers, landowners and regulators to find opportunities to further improve habitat along the river. This will provide shelter for smaller fish in high flows and help protect them from predators and pollution events.
Environment Agency fisheries officer Tanya Houston said: “The River Wandle is a prime example of providing an amenity for local anglers while creating and enhancing the environment. We know that the fish we have stocked in the past have always flourished in this area.
“It will be some years before the fish in the Wandle return to the size and number they attained before the incident in 2007. The Environment Agency will continue to work in partnership with the Wandle Trust, Thames Water and others to monitor the recovery of the river and seek opportunities for enhancements.”
The Environment Agency carry out more than 500 fish stockings transfers every year. Stocking of fish can bring socio-economic and conservation benefits to fisheries by increasing the numbers and species of fish available for capture, or by restoring stocks lost due to pollution or habitat degradation.
Fishing without a rod licence is contrary to Section 27(a) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975. The maximum fine is £2,500 and a ban from fishing.
A rod licence permits the use of up to two rods and lines when fishing for Coarse fish where Regional Byelaws and Rules permit. This is clearly stated on the licence. Two valid licences are required if fishing with a third or fourth rod.
Rod licence costs:
Coarse and non-migratory tout
Full annual £26.00
Concessionary annual £17.25
Junior annual £5.00
8 day £9.50
1 day £3.50
Salmon and sea trout
Full annual £70.00
Concessionary annual £46.50
Junior annual £5.00
8 day £22.50
1 day £7.75
Concession licences apply if:
• Aged 16 or under (Junior)
• Aged 65 or over
• A Blue Badge parking concession, or are in receipt of Disability Living Allowance
There are four easy ways to buy or renew rod licence:
• Direct Debit (08708 506 506)
• Online at www.environment-agency.gov.uk
• At any Post Office in England and Wales
• Telephone Sales 0844 800 5386 (Lines open 8.30am-8pm, 7 days a week March to October). Calls charged at local rate.
